Keeping Kids Safe Around Your Backyard Pool
Owning a pool is great—until you realise how fast kids can get themselves into trouble. If you’ve got little ones running around, childproofing your pool isn’t just a good idea, it’s a must. Here’s how to do it the right way so you can relax knowing your pool area is as safe as possible.
First Things First: A Compliant Pool Fence
Let’s cut to the chase—you need a pool fence. In New Zealand, it’s the law. Your fence must be at least 1.2 metres high and can’t be easy to climb. That means no gaps bigger than 100mm and nothing nearby that kids could use as a step up (like a planter box or outdoor furniture).
What to check:
- The gate should open outward (away from the pool).
- It must close and latch automatically every single time.
- There shouldn’t be anything kids can squeeze through or climb over.
If your fence doesn’t meet these rules, you might get fined—or worse, risk a serious accident. You can check out specific fencing regulations on the Building Performance website.
Need a reliable pool fence? Retailers like Mitre 10 and Bunnings NZ have options that meet safety standards.
Pool Covers & Safety Nets—Extra Protection
Not all pool covers are safe. A flimsy floating cover won’t stop a child from falling in—it might even make things worse. If you’re getting a pool cover, make sure it’s a secure, lockable cover that can hold a child’s weight.
For extra security, pool safety nets are a solid option. They stretch tightly across the pool and keep kids from falling in. You can find childproof pool covers and nets at Pool & Spa Warehouse NZ.
Alarms—A Backup System
Even if your fence is top-notch, extra layers of safety help. Pool alarms can detect movement in the water, alerting you if anyone falls in.
There are different types:
- Gate alarms—alert you if the pool gate is opened.
- Surface alarms—detect ripples and splashes.
- Wearable alarms—kids wear a wristband, and an alarm goes off if it gets wet.
You can find pool alarms at retailers like Jaycar or specialty pool stores.
Keep Pool Toys Out of the Water
Let’s be real—kids love a pool toy. But when they’re left floating in the pool, they can be way too tempting. A toddler might try to reach for one and topple straight in.
Best move? Take all toys out of the water after swimming and put them well out of sight.
Teach Kids the ‘Pool Rules’ Early
Even with all these safety measures, kids need to know the rules. Start teaching them early:
- No running near the pool.
- No swimming without an adult watching.
- No pushing or rough play around the water.
If they’re old enough, swimming lessons can be lifesaving. Classes like those at SwimSafe NZ help kids build water confidence and learn essential safety skills.
Supervision—The Golden Rule
Nothing replaces adult supervision. Even if you’ve got the best fence, alarms, and covers, accidents happen in a split second. Always keep an eye on kids around the water, and never assume someone else is watching.
A good rule of thumb? If kids are in the pool, an adult should always be within arm’s reach.
Take Action Before Summer Hits
It’s easy to forget about pool safety until it’s too late. Before the weather warms up, run a safety check:
✅ Is the fence up to legal standards?
✅ Does the gate self-latch properly?
✅ Have you secured your pool cover or safety net?
✅ Have you removed pool toys from the water?
✅ Are kids clear on the ‘pool rules’?
If you’re unsure about any of these, book a pool compliance check. Many local councils offer inspections, or you can find certified inspectors via Pool Safe NZ.
Final Word
Making your pool childproof isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about making sure kids stay safe. The right fencing, covers, alarms, and supervision all work together to prevent accidents. A few simple steps now mean you can enjoy summer without the constant worry.
Stay safe, and happy swimming!
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